Two things are hitting at once and they’re surely related. The first is from an unnamed US official quoted by Reuters but it came simultaneously with a White House statement saying:

• Trump has made clear that acquiring Greenland is a ‘national security priority’
• Trump would like to acquire Greenland during his term
• Trump and advisors discussing options including purchasing it from Denmark or forming a compact of free association
• Utilizing the military is always an option

That last one is the real kicker.

What a bizarre saga this is, straight mafia stuff. Anything untoward or violent would certainly force the EU to go from ‘strong levels of concern’ to actual repercussions, if only on trade.